Prepare to fall in love with the ultimate Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe! This cake boasts an irresistible cloud-like texture with just the right balance of sweetness and fragrant vanilla. Whether you’re celebrating something special, sharing with loved ones, or simply treating yourself, its golden, pillowy crumb and simple ingredients make it a timeless classic that never fails to wow. I can’t wait to walk you through every step!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a crucial role: from creating a perfectly tender crumb to imparting pure vanilla goodness and airy height. Don’t skip or substitute–these pantry staples work their magic together!
- All-purpose flour: Sifted for maximum lightness, it forms the cake’s delicate structure.
- Baking powder: Ensures the sponge rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and highlights the vanilla flavor.
- Large eggs (room temperature): The backbone of the sponge—they give lift and signature airy texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps whip the eggs into a fluffy, mousse-like base.
- Whole milk (warmed): Blends smoothly without chilling the batter, adding moisture and softness.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Gives richness and that classic, tender crumb.
- Pure vanilla extract: The star flavor, making every bite sing with warm, inviting notes.
How to Make Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Taking a few extra seconds here guarantees an easy release and perfect edges—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting is key for the Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe because it eliminates lumps and ensures even mixing, giving you that smooth-as-air result.
Step 3: Whip Eggs Until Fluffy
Crack the room temperature eggs into a large mixing bowl. Beat them with an electric mixer on high speed for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture is thick and pale. This step traps air—the secret to a dreamy, cloud-like texture.
Step 4: Gradually Add Sugar
While keeping the mixer going, slowly add in the sugar. Watch as the mixture becomes glossy and triples in volume—this is when you know you’re on your way to an incredibly soft cake!
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Using a spatula, gently fold in the flour mixture in three batches. Work slowly, making broad, gentle strokes, so you don’t deflate that precious air. This is the golden rule for all sponge cakes!
Step 6: Mix Warm Milk, Butter, and Vanilla
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour this lovely mixture into your batter, folding gently until just combined. The aroma at this stage is simply wonderful!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pour the fluffy batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!
Step 8: Cool and Unmold
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack. Patience pays off here—the cake firms up and won’t stick, making it easier to handle.
How to Serve Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A classic like this shines with just a dusting of powdered sugar, but fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a light vanilla glaze can make your Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe extra-special. Edible flowers add a beautiful touch for a special occasion.
Side Dishes
Serve each slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit salad. For a classic pairing, a cup of hot tea or coffee perfectly complements the tender crumb and gentle vanilla flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe into a showstopper by layering it with whipped cream and sliced strawberries, or serving mini cakes for an elegant twist. Trifle-style parfaits are also delightful, especially for gatherings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps it moist and delicious without any fuss.
Freezing
This sponge cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then foil. Pop them into the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight on the counter and enjoy that fresh-baked flavor.
Reheating
If you love a warm slice, place a piece in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Or, warm it gently in a low oven; just cover with foil to prevent drying out. It’s absolutely irresistible this way!
FAQs
Why did my sponge cake turn out dense instead of fluffy?
Most often, density happens when the eggs aren’t whipped long enough or the batter is overmixed. Stick to the steps in this Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe, especially the gentle folding, and you’ll achieve that signature airy crumb.
Can I double the Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe for a layer cake?
Absolutely! Double all ingredients and divide between two pans for a gorgeous, high-layered treat. Just check the cakes a little early, as baking times can vary slightly.
What can I use if I don’t have whole milk?
Whole milk provides best results, but you can substitute with 2% milk if necessary. For non-dairy options, almond or oat milk work in a pinch, but the cake may be slightly less rich.
How do I keep the cake moist if making in advance?
For extra moistness, brush the cooled layers with simple syrup before filling or serving. This trick locks in flavor—and works wonders if you’re stacking for a layered presentation!
Can I use this sponge cake for other desserts?
Definitely! The Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe is a fantastic base for trifles, tiramisu, or as a base for creative miniature cakes and cupcakes. Its neutral, fluffy character welcomes endless tasty adventures.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, showstopping treat that never disappoints, the Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe is your ticket to cake happiness. Give it a try, let the aroma fill your kitchen, and enjoy every soft, sweet bite—it’s pure joy in dessert form!
Print
Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the light and airy delight of this Fluffy Vanilla Sponge Cake. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make cake is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease/line an 8-inch round cake pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Beat Eggs: In a large bowl, beat eggs until thick and pale.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in dry ingredients.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Mix warm milk, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Combine Batter: Fold in milk mixture, pour into pan, and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Cool in pan, then on wire rack before serving.
Notes
- For extra moisture, brush layers with simple syrup.
- Double recipe for a two-layer cake.
- Avoid overmixing for a light texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
